Our region has a rich fauna with species from all major branches of the animal kingdom represented. Here we provide specific information about some of the larger and more charismatic species, however the diversity is such that more species are left out than are included. To find out more about some of these groups click on the images or links below.
Mammals:
The Castlemaine region is home to a range of native mammals, some of which can be easily seen, and others of which are rarely sighted either because of their small size, nocturnal habit or threatened status.
Birds:
Our bird fauna is diverse with about half the species known to occur in Victoria found in our area. Birds such as the New Holland Honeyeater (above) frequent gardens and nearby bushland.
Reptiles:
There is a wide range of reptiles found in the region although most are seldom seen. The most common and frequently seen group of reptiles are lizards of the family Scincidae.
Amphibians:
Frogs are the only group of amphibians found in our area. Most are heard more often than they are seen.
Butterflies:
Our club has documented many of the butterflies found in the region with pictures and notes about most of our local species. Keep your eyes open for species we have not yet recorded.
Dragonflies and Damselflies:
Like the butterflies, this group of insects is fairly well known. There are around 45 species of dragonflies and damselflies found locally.
Other Animals
The other major group of vertebrate animals, the fish, are not well represented in our area. The fish that you are most likely to see in our smaller creeks and rivers is the highly invasive Eastern Mosquito-Fish, Gambusia holbrooki.
There are thousands of invertebrate animals found across the region. Insects and spiders make up the bulk of those that will be encountered however other invertebrate groups are plentiful although perhaps seldom seen. Many of these invertebrate species are poorly known. A large proportion of these species are yet to be formally described and named.